Mental health informatics
Mental health informatics is a branch of health or clinical informatics concerned with the use of technology and information to improve mental health. Mental health itself is not limited to the treatment and prevention of mental illness but also includes promotion of mental health and quality of life. Like health informatics, mental health informatics is a multidisciplinary field that promotes care delivery, research, and education.[1,2] Areas of focus specific to mental health include:[1,2]
- Electronic health records (EHRs)
- Terminology and coding systems such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
- Care planning, coordination, and delivery
- Telemedicine
Why is there a need for a separate field for mental health informatics? Mental health conditions are often challenging to treat and result in significant medical costs. There are indirect costs to society, such as homelessness, lost productivity and government services. Individuals with mental health conditions experience social isolation, inability to work, disability, and premature death. Coordinating care across different services over time is a major challenge. Historically, mental health care, research, and education has been poorly funded and funded separately from care for physical conditions. Mental health care involves a network of disparate organizations and services, including:[1,2]
- Hospitals
- Outpatient health facilities
- Social service agencies
- Public health agencies
- Housing agencies and shelters
- Legal services
- Criminal justice system
- Non-profit organizations, including religious and community organizations
There is a major stigma associated with mental disorders, including substance use disorders. Individuals may avoid care because of societal perceptions. There are increased requirements for protecting the privacy and confidentiality of records of mental health care. Individuals with mental health conditions unable to care for or make decisions for themselves. There are special regulatory and legal requirements for protecting and caring for these vulnerable individuals.
References
- Hanson A, Levin BL. Mental health informatics. New York: Oxford University Press; 2013
- Rigby M, Lindmark J, Furlan PM. The importance of developing an informatics framework for mental health. Health Policy 1998;45(1):57-67.
Submitted by Amy Wang
